1. Assess the Kittens:
* Age: Determine their age as accurately as possible. This will guide your feeding choices and schedule. Very young kittens (under 2 weeks old) are the most vulnerable.
* Health: Look for signs of illness (lethargy, dehydration, diarrhea, etc.). If you notice anything concerning, seek immediate veterinary care.
2. Feeding Options:
* Kitten Milk Replacer (KMR): This is the best option for abandoned kittens, especially if you don't know their age. It's formulated to mimic mother's milk and provides essential nutrients. Choose a high-quality KMR from a reputable pet store.
* Cow's Milk: Never give cow's milk to kittens. It can cause digestive upset and is not nutritionally complete.
3. Feeding Method:
* For Very Young Kittens (Under 2 weeks old):
* Feeding Bottle: Choose a bottle with a small nipple that mimics a mother cat's nipple.
* Temperature: Warm the KMR to body temperature (around 98.6°F) by warming it in a bowl of hot water or using a bottle warmer.
* Frequency: Feed every 2-3 hours, around the clock.
* Amount: Start with small amounts (about 1/2 teaspoon) and increase as they grow.
* Burping: Burp kittens frequently during and after feeding to prevent gas and discomfort.
* For Older Kittens (Over 2 weeks old):
* Feeding Dish: You can transition to a shallow dish for feeding as they get older.
* Frequency: Feed 4-6 times a day.
* Amount: Adjust the amount based on the kitten's growth and appetite.
4. Additional Tips:
* Hygiene: Sterilize feeding bottles and dishes after each use to prevent bacterial contamination.
* Warmth: Kittens need to stay warm. Provide a warm, cozy bed (like a heated pad) and a blanket.
* Stimulation: Gently rub their bellies and backs to encourage urination and defecation, especially younger kittens.
* Veterinary Care: Schedule a vet visit as soon as possible for a check-up and vaccinations.
5. Important Considerations:
* Safety: Keep kittens in a safe, enclosed area to prevent them from getting lost or injured.
* Socialization: If you're fostering the kittens, start socializing them early to make them more confident and friendly.
* Finding Homes: Seek help from a local animal shelter or rescue organization to find loving forever homes for the kittens.
If you're unsure about any aspect of caring for abandoned kittens, please reach out to a veterinarian or animal rescue organization for expert advice.